Bullying Witnesses Have Issues

There are some current studies on bullying that are very enlightening.

Apparently, teens who witness bullying are as likely or more likely than victims to develop anxiety, depression and physical symptoms from stress. These kids are more likely to use drugs or alcohol.  The conclusion is that kids are actually traumatized by exposure to bullying events and the fact that they can’t or don’t help their peers who are targeted by bullies.

In addition, studies are finding that girls who have been bullied are having sex with more partners than the girls those who had never been bullied. Strangely the reverse is true with boys who were bullied.

My assumption is that it has to do with a lowered self esteem in both boys and girls who were bullied. Boys with low self esteem probably initiate fewer encounters with girls and girls who have been bullied are willing to engage in sex with multiple partners because they don’t have respect for themselves.

Parents, please take heed. Your absence or presence in your children’s lives make a huge difference.

Photo: studiostoer